Berries and Bellinis

August 23, 2010

Who: Courtney Dial thrown for Joy Beth Bodie Where: On the patio of a historic home in Nashville, TN What time of year: Late July Reason: Birthday Party

The following is from Courtney:

Joy Beth is known for her fabulous baking skills and love of desserts, so I knew I wanted to do something whimsical and unique for her birthday celebration. I decided on a “build your own berry cobbler” bar to go along with a “Berries & Bellinis” theme which perfectly fit the craving for fresh fruit and refreshing sips during this stifling summer heat.

Fresh blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and peaches were served with a brown sugar crumble, whipped topping, powdered sugar, and vanilla bean ice cream. Instead of birthday cake, a homemade blueberry pie was served (complete with a birthday candle!). Small mini angel food cakes topped with a whipped vanilla cream and fresh berries were also served on small glass cake stands.

Lastly, I wanted to serve cupcakes but knew it had to be a fun twist on the original cupcake. I opted for “cupcake skewers” which were french vanilla cake served with vanilla-almond icing and topped with either a raspberry or blueberry. The mini cupcakes were skewered with a bamboo skewer and placed into a floral foam inside a whimsical vase. They were topped off with a small ribbon flag in berry colors. These were the HIT of the party!

Below is the recipe for the bellinis. They were so delightfully refreshing and a delicious accompaniment to our fruity desserts! Red and white was also served along with a fruit tea.

Raspberry Bellinis

1 bottle champagne

3/4 to 1 cup raspberries (or a berry of your choice!)

1/4 cup sugar

1/3 cup club soda

Place raspberries or other berries in blender with sugar and club soda. Puree into a thick “smoothie-like” consistency. When ready to serve, mix with bottle of champagne! Add a drink stirrer (might I suggest a bamboo skewer with blueberries!). Enjoy!